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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider House Speaker hails directive to protect OFW's 'balikbayan boxes'

House Speaker hails directive to protect OFW's 'balikbayan boxes'

Published Jun 10, 2025 02:39 pm
House Speaker Martin Romualdez has hailed the new Joint Administrative Order (JAO) between various government agencies establishing a regulatory framework to protect overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their "balikbayan boxes" from fraud, theft, and delivery delays.
Romualdez said the landmark JAO provides for stronger monitoring of sea cargo consolidators, mandates clearer documentation, and enforces swift complaint mechanisms to stop abusive practices by illegitimate freight forwarder.
"Today’s milestone reflects what public service should always be—listening to the people, acting on their concerns, and delivering results that uplift lives,” Speaker Romualdez said Tuesday, June 10.
“The balikbayan box is not just cargo; it is the story of a Filipino working hard abroad for the love of family. It deserves protection, and it has now been secured," he added.
According to Romualdez, the JAO gives OFWs peace of mind.
"No more sleepless nights wondering where their box went. No more fear of pilfered gifts or weeks of unexplained delays. And for families here in the Philippines—it means receiving those carefully packed items on time, complete, and untouched," he said.
It was signed by the Departments of Finance, Trade and Industry, Transportation, and Migrant Workers, along with the Bureau of Customs, Fair Trade Enforcement Bureau, and the Philippine Ports Authority.
The House Speaker then extended his deep appreciation to OFW Party-list Rep. Marissa “Del Mar” Magsino, who authored House Resolution (HR) No. 499—the catalyst for the JAO.
“Rep. Marissa Magsino acted with urgency and heart. She gave voice to the frustrations of our OFWs and worked to build a solution that is now a reality. Her leadership brought this reform from the committee room to the Customs gate—and finally, to every Filipino doorstep,” Romualdez said.
He also praised Tingog Party-list Rep. Jude Acidre, Chair of the House Committee on Overseas Workers Affairs, for building consensus and leading the legislative coordination that made the policy possible.
“Chairman Jude Acidre worked hand-in-hand with agencies, freight companies, and migrant advocates. His leadership ensured that this reform was not only swift—but substantive and lasting,” he added.
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